Jeff Moeller, freelance correspondent

Roughly six years ago, Richmond Hill’s Faith Evans decided to play basketball, a sport in which she watched her father, Robert, play with determination and desire. 

“I started playing basketball around 2020 on a recreational team, and began playing basketball for my school in ninth-grade,” reflected Evans, who is a senior guard for the Wildcats. "I originally started playing because of my dad, he played and also coached not only others but also me. Seeing how much passion he had for the game made me want to play it too and make him proud.”

Evans has taken the cue from her father, playing her game with the same fervor as her father. The senior is currently battling a knee injury and averaging 4.8 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game.

“I see my role on the team as the teammate and captain that is supportive but is also there to lift spirits in rough times whether that be on or off the court.” beamed Evans. “I love to make my teammates and people in general laugh and smile, and it makes me feel good as a person.”

Head coach Sarah Jones has watched Evans’ leadership skills develop over the years.

“Faith has been a good leader for us,” boasted Jones. “She has been in the program for four years and consistently has worked hard and gotten better every year.

Evans’ current injury, in which she is expected to return next week, has been among a handful Evans had dealt with over the past year, but she has continued to persevere through them 

“In my junior year, I tore a ligament in my thumb in late December, which caused me to sit out for the rest of the season,” recalled Evans. “This season I sprained my achilles in our first game, and then a little over a week ago,  I sprained my LCL.” 

Head coach Sarah Jones has seen a similar picture from her guard and post player. 

“She unfortunately has had to deal with some injuries, but she has worked hard to return from them, “stated Jones. “Faith is dealing with a current injury, but, hopefully, she will be able to return to the court soon.” 

“Even through the injuries, Faith continues to be a leader. Her role has changed from being the physical leader on the court to a leader on the bench until she can return to the court.” 

Evans has worked on her game on both sides of the court. 

“This year, I believe I definitely improved as a player, especially defensively,” stressed Evans. “I also have worked on my defensive sliding.

“As well as my defense, I have shot the ball better this year than I have the previous three years, especially when it comes to three-pointers and free throws. My offense has gotten better as well but I believe there is always room for improvement offensively and defensively.”

The Wildcats began the week with an overall 9-11 record and a 0-6 slate in regional play. They traveled to Camden County Tuesday and then will play at Colquitt County Friday.

Evans is confident the team can make a late-season run, and she is ready to play her role.  

“Our team chemistry has always been good,”  noted Evans. “We have had our ups and downs this season as a team. 

“However, I believe we all strove and worked our hardest to keep high spirits, play to the best of our abilities, and be proud of ourselves no matter the outcome. With this season coming to an end, we are just focused on making every game count.”